The Impecunious Cricket And The Frugal Ant

By Guy Wetmore Carryl

Fable
    There was an ant, a spinster ant,     Whose virtues were so many     That she became intolerant     Of those who hadn't any:     She had a small and frugal mind     And lived a life ascetic,     Nor was her temperament the kind     That's known as sympathetic.     I skip details. Suffice to say     That, knocking at her wicket,     There chanced to come one autumn day     A common garden cricket     So ragged, poor, and needy that,     Without elucidation,     One saw the symptoms of a bat     Of several months' duration.     He paused beside her door-step, and,     With one pathetic gesture,     He called attention with his hand     To both his shoes and vesture.     "I joined," said he, "an opera troupe.     They suddenly disbanded,     And left me on the hostel stoop,     Lugubriously stranded.     "I therefore lay aside my pride     And frankly ask for clothing."     "Begone!" the frugal ant replied.     "I look on you with loathing.     Your muddy shoes have spoiled the lawn,     Your hands have soiled the fence, too.     If you need money, go and pawn     Your watch--if you have sense to."     THE MORAL is: Albeit lots     Of people follow Dr. Watts,     The sluggard, when his means are scant,     Should seek an uncle, not an ant!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This cleverly constructed narrative poem uses anthropomorphized insects to explore themes of morality, social responsibility, and the harsh realities of survival in a world defined by scarcity and judgment. The ant and the cricket serve as foils to each other, with the ant embodying frugality, discipline, and self-righteousness, and the cricket representing vulnerability, artistic pursuit, and the harsh consequences of impracticality.

The poem's tone is light and satirical, though it presents a serious commentary on the lack of empathy and understanding that often characterizes social relations. It employs a simple ABAB rhyme scheme, creating a rhythmic flow that complements the narrative style. The use of direct dialogue provides a dramatic element, enhancing character development and creating a vivid visual image for the reader. The inclusion of a moral at the end is a nod to traditional fable structure, a literary device that reinforces the poem's critique of societal attitudes towards poverty and lack of sympathy for the less fortunate. The poet subtly invites the reader to question these social norms, and consider the value of compassion over judgment.

Understanding Fables

A fable is a timeless form of storytelling, typically featuring animals as characters that embody human traits, all while conveying a moral lesson. These short narratives have been used throughout history to impart wisdom, offering insights that remain relevant across generations.

Fables stand out for their simplicity and clarity, often concluding with a lesson that is easy to understand and remember. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Animal Characters: The main characters are often animals that represent human behaviors and characteristics, making the stories both engaging and relatable.
  • Concise Narrative: Fables are brief and focused, with each story centering around a single event or interaction that leads to a moral conclusion.
  • Moral Lesson: The purpose of a fable is to teach a lesson, which is usually stated clearly at the end, offering practical advice or ethical guidance.

From Aesop's ancient tales to modern adaptations, fables continue to be a powerful tool for education and moral reflection, resonating with audiences of all ages.